2.1 Name THREE types of diversification strategies - NSC Business Studies - Question 2 - 2019 - Paper 1

The Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs) play a critical role in implementing the SDA by:

1. Drafting Skills Development Plans: SETAs help develop and implement skills development plans aligned with the National Skills Development Strategy, thereby addressing workforce skills needs.

2. Allocating Grants: They provide financial assistance through grants to training providers and employers to implement approved training programs.

3. Monitoring and Evaluation: SETAs are responsible for monitoring and evaluating the effectiveness of training initiatives and ensuring compliance with the SDA.

2.3.1 Maternity Leave: Ruth, the secretary, was allowed to stay home for four consecutive months after her baby was born as per maternity leave provisions.

2.3.2 Annual Leave: Ashley, the supervisor, is entitled to take up to 21 days leave per year, which aligns with annual leave regulations.

2.3.3 Sick Leave: John, the financial clerk, took three to five days off work to care for his sick mother, reflecting the sick leave provisions under the BCEA.

2.3.4 Medical Leave: Zodwa, the production manager, presented a medical certificate for her absence due to flu, indicating compliance with the sick leave policy.

The Labour Relations Act (LRA) aims to promote fair labor practices and facilitate constructive relationships between employers and employees. It provides a legal framework for:

1. Collective Bargaining: Ensuring that both parties engage in negotiations regarding wages, working conditions, and other employment terms.

2. Employee Rights: Protecting the rights of employees to organize and participate in trade unions without fear of discrimination or retaliation.

3. Dispute Resolution: Establishing processes for resolving labor disputes through mediation, conciliation, and arbitration.

The Consumer Protection Act (CPA) establishes several important rights for consumers, including:

1. Right to Fair Value, Good Quality and Safety: Consumers have the right to receive products that meet quality standards and are safe for use.

2. Right to Privacy and Confidentiality: Consumers should have control over their personal information and be protected from unsolicited marketing.

3. Right to Accountability from Suppliers: This entails that suppliers must honor warranties and provide clear information about products, including any risks involved.

2.6.1 Act Name: The act that Meat Market Ltd is complying with is the Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment Act (BBBEE).

2.6.2 Identify TWO pillars of the Act:

1. Ownership: The act emphasizes that the company allocated shares to previously disadvantaged individuals, thus promoting ownership.

2. Skills Development: The offering of learnership programs not only mitigates skill gaps but also aligns with the goals of the BBBEE to uplift disadvantaged groups.

2.7.1 Economic Factors: Businesses may struggle due to low income levels or high unemployment affecting consumer purchasing power. Economic fluctuations can also adversely impact business operations and sales.

2.7.2 Social Factors: Social challenges, such as differing backgrounds and languages, may hinder effective communication with customers, impacting service delivery and customer satisfaction.

Businesses can comply with the EEA by:

1. Diverse Recruitment Practices: Ensuring that recruitment processes are inclusive and represent all racial and gender groups within the workforce.

2. Training and Development Programs: Offering training to underrepresented groups to promote a more equitable workplace and bridge skills gaps.

3. Regular Reporting: Submitting regular reports to the Department of Labour on employment equity progress to demonstrate compliance.